Three Indian-origin scientists, based in London and Oxford and noted for their excellence in medical science, are among 46 experts elected Fellows of the Academy of Medical Sciences.

Three Indian-origin scientists, based in London and Oxford and noted for their excellence in medical science, are among 46 experts elected Fellows of the Academy of Medical Sciences.

The three scientists are Professor Anant Parekh, Professor of Physiology, University of Oxford; Professor Jaspal Singh Kooner, Professor of Clinical Cardiology, Imperial College London; and Professor Ajit Lalvani, Chair of Infectious Diseases, Director, Tuberculosis Research Unit, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London.

The 46 Fellows were chosen from 354 candidates. Academy Fellows are elected for outstanding contributions to the advancement of medical science, for innovative application of scientific knowledge or for their conspicuous service to healthcare.

The expertise of the new Fellows spans neurosurgery, anticancer drug development, reproductive sciences, medical genetics and R&D leadership, the academy said in a release today.

Anant Parekh's work is described as having shaped the understanding of the role of calcium ion channels in cell function. Professor Parekh's discoveries are said to be highly relevant to the understanding of and treatment of allergies including asthma.

Ajit Lalvani's research has shaped TB control policy internationally and provided fundamental insights into immunity to intracellular pathogens and the action of TB and malaria vaccines.

The expertise of the new Fellows spans neurosurgery, anticancer drug development, reproductive sciences, medical genetics and R&D leadership, the academy said in a release.

Professor Sir John Tooke, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said: "These new Fellows represent the wealth of talent within the UK biomedical community. Excellent medical science and medical scientists are key to breakthroughs in preventing and treating ill health".

The new Fellows will be formally admitted to the Academy at a ceremony on 27 June, 2012, bringing the number of Fellows of the academy to 1061.

The independent Academy of Medical Sciences promotes advances in medical science and campaigns to ensure these are translated into benefits for patients.